Jumping to New Heights: Coach Peisker Leads 10 WA Athletes to Nationals

It’s not every day you see a single coach take ten athletes to a National Championship — let alone in the same event. But for long-time high jump coach Nenad Peisker, this year’s Australian Athletics Championships was just that: a celebration of passion, persistence, and proud results.

Peisker, who has been coaching in Australia for over 30 years, guided ten high jumpers, all from Western Australia, to compete at the national level. With personal bests, podium finishes, and standout performances across the board, it was a weekend to remember.

Among the standout moments at the Australian Athletics Championships was Mila Joubert’s impressive gold medal in the Under 17 Women’s High Jump, where she soared to a personal best of 1.75 metres.

“Mila's 175cm jump is an indicator of something more than just a talented girl,” he said.

“It was a nice clean win with a nice margin, so all boxes were ticked, her mental strength, how she held herself during the competition, in between jumps and during her jumps — I am very happy with that.”

Peiskers coaching journey started with a love for high jump as an athlete himself and a parallel career as a Physical Education teacher. Now coaching solely in high jump, he brings not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the mental demands of the event.

“I try to make them aware that there are demons there,” Peisker explains.

“We have to be ready to fight with them, rather than allow ourselves to be blown away with fear and nervousness. From the early days, they are meeting that area and learning to deal with it.”

For Peisker, coaching is about much more than just achieving results, it’s about guiding young people as they discover their potential and navigate their own journey in the sport.

“I’m working with young people, in my favourite event which I really love,” he says.

“And helping them while they’re still discovering new things, it is lovely.”

From guiding 10 athletes to the national stage, to celebrating personal bests and podium finishes, Nenad’s passion for coaching and helping young people thrive in sport is clear.

If his story has sparked something in you, whether you’re a former athlete, a teacher, or simply someone who loves helping others grow, why not consider coaching?

Our next Level 1 Youth Coaching Course begins next week. Join us and be part of shaping the next generation of champions.

Level 1 Youth Coaching Course Information

To find out more about Coaching in Western Australia and to start your athletics journey, click HERE. 

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For more information about how you can get started in athletics, contact Athletics West on 08 6272 0480 or email admin@athleticswest.com.au 

By Imogen McDonald, Athletics West

Photo supplied by Nenad Peisker

Published 6 May 2025